Chicken Casserole Recipe

Chicken: Shredded, cooked chicken provides the protein and main substance of the casserole.

Mixed vegetables: A blend of frozen vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition to the dish.

Cream of chicken soup: This canned soup creates a creamy, flavorful base for the casserole.

Milk: Used to thin out the cream of chicken soup and make the sauce smoother.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts on top, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, golden-brown finish.

When preparing this chicken casserole, ensure that the mixed vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture to guarantee a balanced flavor in every bite. Additionally, for a crispier topping, consider toasting the breadcrumbs lightly in a pan with a bit of butter before sprinkling them over the cheddar cheese. This will add an extra layer of texture and richness to the dish.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making it an excellent substitute in casseroles.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu provides a similar protein content and can absorb the flavors of the dish.

• mixed vegetables, frozen - Substitute with fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables can be used for a more vibrant and crisp texture. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding.

• mixed vegetables, frozen - Substitute with canned vegetables: Canned vegetables are a convenient alternative and can be used directly without thawing.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup offers a similar creamy consistency and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with homemade white sauce: A homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk can replace canned soup for a fresher taste.

• milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream will make the casserole richer and creamier.

• milk - Substitute with plant-based milk: Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.

• cheddar cheese, shredded - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a milder flavor and a gooey texture when melted.

• cheddar cheese, shredded - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can provide a similar texture and flavor.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a crunchy texture and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko: Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• Allow the chicken casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the breadcrumbs topping soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• For freezing, portion the casserole into individual servings or leave it whole. Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label each package with the date and contents to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat thawed casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, about 30-40 minutes. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and bake for 60-75 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to crisp the breadcrumbs topping.
• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the chicken casserole to an oven-safe dish if it’s not already in one.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs topping.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the chicken casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir the casserole halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Continue heating in 1-minute increments until the casserole is hot throughout.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a portion of the chicken casserole in a non-stick skillet.
  2. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep it moist.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat over medium-low heat.
  4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  5. Heat until the casserole is warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place a portion of the chicken casserole in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 3-5 minutes to crisp up the cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs topping.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk.

• Baking dish: The container in which the casserole mixture is spread out evenly and baked.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like milk, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs accurately.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Cheese grater: If you have a block of cheddar cheese, this tool will help you shred it.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool down slightly before serving.

• Serving spoon: Used to serve the casserole once it has cooled for a few minutes.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding chicken yourself.

Frozen vegetables: Opt for frozen mixed vegetables to skip washing and chopping fresh ones.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid grating it yourself.

One-bowl mixing: Mix all ingredients in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.

Quick breadcrumbs: Use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.